Both candidates must focus on city issues and leadership and get their messages to voters. Buhler needs to draw a contrast, give people a reason to vote for him, without being mean or negative. Most people like Becker, but his weakness is his wonkishness. Will the city suffer from timidity and paralysis by analysis? A mayor must take chances and make tough decisions.

• Without doubt, Gov. Calvin L. Rampton was one of Utah's greatest political figures in the 20th century. More importantly, he was just a great guy. Republicans and Democrats alike mourn his passing.

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Republican LaVarr Webb was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and Deseret News managing editor. He now is a political consultant and lobbyist. E-mail: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. A former candidate for Salt Lake mayor, he served 10 years in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as House minority leader. Pignanelli's spouse, D'Arcy Dixon Pignanelli, is a Utah state tax commissioner. E-mail: frankp@xmission.com.